This aluminum Luftwaffe Buckle is a nice, representative example of the standard prewar enlisted issue belt buckle. It has no paint, which is how these were issued, and is an early example of the second pattern buckle, with the same eagle design that was used on the wartime steel buckles. The obverse of this piece shows moderate wear that has smoothed details at the high points. The worn areas are clean, and there is an undisturbed old patina that has built up in the recesses, creating visual contrast. The reverse of this aluminum Luftwaffe Buckle is complete, with an integral catch for the hook on the belt, and a functional roller bar and prongs assembly. There is no leather tab. This buckle is marked near the catch in raised characters with the maker initials “F.R.” and the date “39.” It’s a handsome buckle, with appealing character.